[The Spirit of Japan] A special feature on Southern All Stars’ classic hits. Gemlike songs
Since their debut in 1978, the band Southern All Stars has delivered countless hit songs and beloved national anthems.
Their music, which has spanned the Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa eras, is deeply rooted in the hearts of many listeners.
Frontman Keisuke Kuwata pours an extraordinary love and respect into kayōkyoku (Japanese popular songs), and part of their charm lies in that sensibility—along with a playful sound that skillfully weaves Japanese and English, and irresistibly catchy hooks.
Above all, the band’s warm, inviting vibe is wonderful.
From uplifting anthems that give you a push, to the erotically bold lyrics that are their trademark, all the way to emotional pop songs, they have a wide array of classics.
Let’s dive into the world of Southern All Stars’ music!
- Southern All Stars Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Southern All Stars Karaoke Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- Southern All Stars Ballad Songs: Popular Song Ranking [2026]
- Southern All Stars Cheer Songs and Popular Song Rankings [2026]
- Masterpieces and popular songs by Keisuke Kuwata
- A roundup of easy-to-sing Southern All Stars songs for karaoke
- [2026] Crowd-Pleasing Songs Recommended for People in Their 50s: A Collection of Nostalgic Classics
- Evokes the charm of the good old days. Showa-era inspirational songs that are still loved today.
- Southern All Stars Love Songs: Popular Songs Ranking [2026]
- A love song that makes a man in his sixties relive his youth. Timeless classics that rekindle the romances of those days.
- Revival hits driven by social media! Classic Showa-era songs popular with Gen Z
- Masterpieces that color the hot season! Summer songs recommended for the Yutori generation
- A collection of timeless classics! Exquisite winter songs recommended for people in their 50s
[The Japanese Spirit] Special feature on Southern All Stars' classic masterpieces: Exquisite Songs (71–80)
Manpi no G★SPOTSazan Ōrusutāzu
From the title, it’s categorized as a so-called “erotic song,” and it’s said to feel like the third part of an Eros trilogy following “Shuraba★La★Bamba” and “Erotica Seven.” The lyrics make extensive use of metaphor, and in the second verse figures like Ryunosuke Akutagawa and Sly & The Family Stone appear.
Parting (Wakare)Sazan Ōrusutāzu
A bittersweet yet forward-looking breakup song.
It’s a Southern All Stars track that deeply resonates with anyone who has experienced parting from someone dear.
Keisuke Kuwata’s distinctive vocals leave a strong impression, delicately portraying feelings toward a lost love.
Released in October 2005, the song contemplates not only the pain of separation but also the transience of love and life, as well as changes of the heart.
While steeped in sadness, it carries a warmth that gently encourages those trying to take their next step.
It’s a recommended song for anyone striving to overcome a painful farewell or wishing to reflect on memories with someone special.
Summer, Southern, and CiderSazan Ōrusutāzu
When you think of Southern All Stars, the image of “summer” is strong.
This song is a collaboration with Mitsuya Cider to mark Southern’s 40th anniversary.
The tingling, refreshing sweetness of the cider spreads as it goes down.
Along with Southern’s music, memories of summer come flooding back.
[The Spirit of Japan] Special Feature on Southern All Stars’ Masterpieces: Gems of Songs (81–90)
Days of Love and DesireSazan Ōrusutāzu
It’s the theme song for the 2004 drama “Ōoku: The First Chapter.” It opens with guitar cutting that sounds almost like Western music and then shifts into a languid Latin rhythm.
The lyrics are also a highlight, striking a deft balance between Japanese-style wording and English.
Love is like a flower (Olé!)Sazan Ōrusutāzu
A gem of a love song distinguished by lyrics interwoven with Spanish.
The words, where heartbreak and passion intersect, resonate deeply with listeners.
Showcasing the full breadth of Southern All Stars’ musical versatility, the track was released in January 1990.
Keisuke Kuwata’s powerful vocals vividly convey a determination to devote everything to love.
It’s a song you’ll want to listen to while thinking of someone you love or cherish—and it’s great for karaoke, too.
Shouting “¡Olé!” in the chorus is sure to lift your spirits.
Tearful KissSazan Ōrusutāzu
The refreshing, friendly, and gentle tone makes it easy to listen to.
The melody occasionally moves like a Japanese scale, adding a nice touch.
The bittersweet lyrics and the pop tune blend well together, and every time I listen, it really tugs at my heart.
Shonan SeptemberSazan Ōrusutāzu
When the chorus hits, you can’t help but want to shout out loud! This track is included on Southern All Stars’ album “Sakura.” Released in October 1998, it topped the Oricon weekly chart for two consecutive weeks.
Completed after 3,000 hours of recording, the work brilliantly captures the scenery and atmosphere of Shonan.
The lyrics, themed around the wistfulness and melancholy of late summer, are striking, and Keisuke Kuwata’s powerful vocals resonate deeply.
It’s a must-listen for anyone who cherishes summer memories and feelings of love.
The more you listen, the more you’ll be drawn into the charm of Shonan!